Dayna was an incredibly resilient force of nature. She was famous for her huge smile, warm hugs, caring generosity, homemade carrot cake and stories about her cats. She was born in Woodstock, Ontario (which she never called home). Raised in Bathurst, NB (at the end of the road). She was the loving daughter of Sarto Lavoie (deceased). Soulfully raised by her Sarto and her grandmother, Dayna both endured and reveled in a storied childhood.

Leaving Bathurst, Dayna pursued her 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under Master Won Kap Chung in Moncton, NB. Following successful completion, she moved on to living and working in Halifax, Toronto and Ithaca, NY. Settling back in Halifax, Dayna took on scores of different jobs in the hospitality sector. Well known in the local restaurant community, Dayna left her indelible mark on all she encountered. She excelled at making everyone feel comfortable so that the experience of dining could be savoured and enjoyed. Ironically, at home she would spice the crap out of her Pad Thai, “just to watch your eyes pop.”

Dayna, lover of Celine Dion, Adele and other big voices like her “freaking own,” told us she would be saying “Hello from the other side.” So listen up folks!! This force of nature isn’t backing off anytime soon.

Dayna will be dearly missed by her husband Scott, extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, Dayna wanted any donations to go to her close friends at The Marguerite Centre, the only facility of its kind for women in Nova Scotia: programarguerite@eastlink.ca.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held February 18th , 3:00pm at Grace United Church, Dartmouth.